Ondo Monarch, Chiefs Mourn Colleague Killed by Accidental Gunshot During Funeral Rite

 

By Wakirike Herald 

A funeral ceremony in Ayeka Kingdom, Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, turned tragic on Tuesday when a High Chief was killed by an accidental gunshot during the funeral rites of another traditional chief.

High Chief Akinwalere Akinola was reportedly struck in the head by a bullet when one of the chiefs, whose name has not been disclosed, attempted to fire a celebratory shot into the air during the ceremony.

The victim died instantly, abruptly bringing the funeral proceedings to an end as family members, traditional leaders and residents reportedly fled or gathered in shock following the gunshot.

The ceremony was being held in honour of the late Chief Omosuyi Obolo, the Odunwo of Ayeka.

Monarch describes incident as devastating

The Lumure of Ayeka Kingdom, Oba Michael Babatunde-Ayeyowa, expressed deep sadness over the death, describing the incident as shocking and unfortunate.

Speaking in Okitipupa on Thursday, the traditional ruler said the tragedy had affected the chiefs and residents of the kingdom.

He said the circumstances surrounding the death required a traditional investigation and described the incident as a deeply disturbing occurrence for the community.

“Although a king does not mourn, since that incident I have not been feeling fine,” the monarch said.

Oba Babatunde-Ayeyowa said the incident had left the traditional council and residents distressed, adding that necessary traditional measures would be undertaken to prevent a recurrence.

He nevertheless urged residents to remain calm and continue their normal activities, assuring them of peace and stability in the kingdom.

Chiefs call for caution and investigation

Chief Andrew Olibamo, the Aribo of Ayeka, said the chiefs were deeply saddened by the incident.

He described the death as unfortunate and said the community would undertake the necessary traditional measures to avert a recurrence.

High Chief Kolawole Adeule, the Kanye of Ayeka, also expressed concern over the tragedy, saying it had affected the monarch, the chiefs and residents of the kingdom.

Adeule explained that funeral rites for deceased chiefs were part of the community's cultural traditions and said the incident would not bring an end to the practice.

He, however, called for greater caution during future ceremonies and said the circumstances surrounding the shooting should be thoroughly investigated.

Police arrest one person

The Ondo State Police Command confirmed that one person had been arrested in connection with the incident.

DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the command's Public Relations Officer, said that investigation was ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting.

He said further information would be made public after the conclusion of the investigation.

The incident has left Ayeka Kingdom mourning the loss of a senior traditional figure while raising fresh questions about the handling of firearms during public and traditional ceremonies.

As the police investigation continues alongside the community's traditional inquiry, the circumstances that led to the fatal discharge remain subject to official findings.

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